Atlanta (AP) -- A Star Trek-type implant that enables directcommunication between the brain and a computer is allowing a paralyzed,mute stroke victim to use his brainpower to move a cursor across a screenand convey simple messages such as hello and goodbye.

Researchers believe the tiny implant the size of the tip of a ballpoint penis the first device that allows direct communication between the brain anda computer.

"Of all things people lose, the ability to communicate is the mostfrightening thing -- to know what you want to say and not be able to sayit," said Dr. Warren Selman, a neurosurgeon at University Hospitals ofCleveland not involved in the research. "This is the first step tounlocking that."

Doctors implanted a device into the 53-year-old man's brain that amplifieshis brain signals. Those signals are then transmitted to a laptop computerthrough an antenna-like coil placed on his head.

Like a computer mouse, the brain signals can move a cursor across thecomputer screen and point at icons with messages such as "See you later.Nice talking with you." The man can also use the cursor to tell others thathe is hungry or thirsty.

"It's like we're making the mouse the patient's brain," said Dr. Roy Bakay,one of two Emory University doctors who developed the technology.

Eventually, researchers hope to use the technology to teach patients towrite letters, send e-mail and turn lights off and on via computer.---------------------Photo not included here: Hard-wired: An implant that enables directcommunication between the brain and a computer is shown Tuesday in thisX-ray.